Five Lanes Primary School, located in Wortley, Leeds, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on May 4 and 5, 2023. The school is characterized by a welcoming and inclusive environment where pupils feel happy and safe. The leadership team demonstrates ambition for all students to succeed, fostering positive attitudes towards learning. The school’s motto emphasizes its commitment to being a caring place for students to learn and grow, promoting respect and kindness among pupils and staff alike. The school celebrates diversity and encourages harmonious interactions among students, who are supportive and cooperative during playtimes and throughout the school day.
Pupils at Five Lanes Primary School benefit from a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, gardening, and chess clubs, which contribute to their overall development. The school promotes physical health through regular activity, earning the Platinum School Games Mark Award. The curriculum is ambitious and well-structured, ensuring that all pupils, including those who are disadvantaged or have special educational needs, receive a high-quality education. The progression of learning is evident from early years through to Year 6, with a focus on building knowledge and skills in subjects such as art, mathematics, and music.
The early years curriculum is effectively designed to prepare children for future learning, with a strong emphasis on language development and clear routines that children understand well. Teachers in the early years work closely with children, fostering positive relationships that enhance learning experiences. Pupils with special educational needs are supported through appropriate adaptations in the curriculum, although there is room for improvement in the precision of their support plans to ensure consistent tracking of their progress.
Reading is prioritized at Five Lanes Primary School, with a consistent phonics scheme implemented across all classes. Teachers lead engaging phonics sessions, ensuring that children develop a love for reading from an early age. The school provides well-matched reading materials to support pupils who may struggle, allowing them to catch up effectively. The curriculum for personal, social, and health education is robust, addressing significant topics such as equality and diversity, and preparing pupils to be active and positive citizens.
Governance at the school is strong, with governors sharing the leadership's ambition for pupils and maintaining a clear understanding of their responsibilities. They actively monitor the implementation of improvement priorities and policies. The safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff receiving regular training to stay updated on best practices. Clear processes are in place for reporting concerns, and leaders maintain detailed records to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.
While the school excels in many areas, there are aspects that require attention. Some pupils occasionally become distracted and disengaged from learning, indicating a need for consistent implementation of the behavior policy across all key stages. Additionally, the targets set in support plans for pupils with special educational needs should be enhanced to better map their progression through the curriculum. Overall, Five Lanes Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong foundation for future improvements.
